Scott Free, Orchard to produce low-budget genre pix

The deal will see Scott exec produce a slate of six horror, thriller and sci-fi features over three years. Focus will handle worldwide sales on the projects.

The films, which will be produced in association with Northern Ireland Screen, will use Northern Ireland locations, crew, cast and services for primary shooting.

“Our target is to create a structure that enables filmmakers to push boundaries and to excite audiences,” said Scott. “Our proposed model of filmmaking allows us to give helmers the opportunity to really innovate through narrative, production techniques and distrib strategies.”

“There’s an appetite and market for high-concept low-budget films,” added Focus Features’ prexy of international sales and distribution Alison Thompson. “That, combined with Ridley Scott’s pedigree, will be very attractive to international buyers.”